Gov’t response to SA attacks “meek” - NPP

The major opposition party in Ghana has taken a swipe at the National Democratic Congress (NDC) government following its handling of the xenophobic attacks in South Africa as far as Ghanaians are concerned.

According to the New Patriotic Party (NPP), the response of the John Mahama-led administration is “meek” and “lackadaisical” and that is worrying.

“Considering the serious nature of these events, our government was expected among other things, to unreservedly condemn these attacks and in concert with other African governments exert the necessary pressure on the South African authorities to act swiftly and decisively to end these barbaric and inhuman attacks on other Africans,” a statement signed by NPP general secretary Kwabena Agyepong, Monday, said.

“Sadly, so far, the NDC government has shown a lackadaisical attitude which is manifest in its inability to communicate to Ghanaians, any measures it is putting in place to assist our Nationals in South Africa, neither have they outlined any contingency plans to evacuate them if necessary.

“Even more damning is the posture of the Foreign Minister, Hon. Hannah Tetteh, who blatantly refused to speak to a local radio station on the issue and arrogantly posited that she will only do so on Radio Gold, a known NDC radio station. Her conduct is as reprehensible as it is insensitive, especially in a matter involving people’s lives and emotions. The President should act decisively on her indiscretion,” the statement added.

It noted: “The NPP strongly urges the President to carry out his sworn obligation under the 1992 constitution to protect the life and safety of every Ghanaian, whether home or Abroad.

“The Party shares in the pain and suffering of the many Ghanaians, whose loved ones have been caught up in this unfortunate situation.”